pituitary gland

Drugs Affecting the Pituitary Gland

  • Pituitary gland secretes hormones vital for growth and reproduction, notably ADAM.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

  • Function: Concentrates urine; indicated for diabetes insipidus, vasodilatory shock, and enuresis.

  • Adverse Effects: Common - belching, N&V, diarrhea; serious - water intoxication, coronary spasms.

  • Drugs: vasopressin (Vasotrict), desmopressin (DDAVP).

  • Nursing: Monitor hydration and lab values; check for water intoxication symptoms.

Growth Hormone (GH)

  • Indications: Stimulates growth, promotes lean body mass, and used for GH deficiency.

  • Adverse Effects: Common - nephrotoxicity, edema, carpal tunnel syndrome; additional effects include gynecomastia.

  • Drugs: Somatropin and long-acting analogs.

  • Nursing: Educate on injections, monitor glucose tolerance, and IGF-1 levels.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

  • Function: Stimulates cortisol production; indicated for adrenal insufficiency and infantile spasms.

  • Adverse Effects: Fluid retention, hypertension, mood changes.

  • Drugs: ACTH (H.P. Acthar Gel).

  • Nursing: Monitor BP, weight, and glucose levels; taper to avoid adrenal crisis.

Corticosteroids

  • Class: Produced by adrenal cortex; includes hydrocortisone, prednisone.

  • Indications: Inflammation, autoimmune disorders.

  • Adverse Effects: Cushing-like symptoms, increased infection risk.

  • Nursing: Gradually taper doses and monitor glucose levels.

Drugs Affecting the Thyroid Gland

  • Function: Regulate metabolism.

  • Replacement Drugs: Levothyroxine (T4), Liothyronine (T3) for hypothyroidism.

  • Adverse Effects: Symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

  • Nursing: Administer consistently, monitor TSH levels.

Anti-thyroid Drugs

  • Function: Inhibit synthesis of thyroid hormones; used for hyperthyroidism.

  • Example: Propylthiouracil (PTU), Methimazole; monitor for agranulocytosis.

Drugs Affecting the Parathyroid Gland

  • Indication: Hyperparathyroidism treated with calcimimetics and bisphosphonates.

  • Adverse Effects: Nausea, arrhythmias.

  • Nursing: Monitor calcium levels and avoid grapefruit juice.

NCLEX "Report Immediately"

  • Report serious symptoms based on specific hormone treatments like ADH, GH, thyroid medications, and calcium therapy symptoms.